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| Cutting of the Award cake at the event |
The third Saturday of January 2015
witnessed as usual a surge of personalities from all walks of life for another
edition of The Sun Man of the Year Awards which took place at the Expo Hall of Eko Hotel and Suites,
Victoria Island Lagos-South West Nigeria.
witnessed as usual a surge of personalities from all walks of life for another
edition of The Sun Man of the Year Awards which took place at the Expo Hall of Eko Hotel and Suites,
Victoria Island Lagos-South West Nigeria.
The event which is a yearly occasion brings
all classes of Nigerians from various sectors into one ambience and rewards
them for excellence and creativity in their various endeavors. The 12th
edition which held on Saturday January 17th was as usual, grand,
unique and extra-ordinary as politicians, entrepreneurs, businessmen and
traditional authorities converged on the venue of the occasion for a great
Night out. Your Soar away Africa’s number 1 Celebrity Encounter blog Asabeafrika was at the event. We bring
to you behind the scene action you won’t read anywhere on this blog. Enjoy the
excerpts.
About Sun man of the year Awards
The Awards, Sun man of the year was conceptualized
in year 2003 under the leadership of tabloid veterans Mike Awoyinfa and late Dimgba
Igwe as Managing Director and Deputy Managing Director of The
Sun Newspaper. The first Nigerian to get the first plaque of Sun
Man of the year Awards is no other person than Nigeria’s billionaire
business mogul, Otunba (Dr.) Mike
Adenuga Jnr.; the founder of Globacom
and Conoil. The Sun man of the year Award
is the flagship of THE SUN AWARDS and the ultimate honor bestowed annually on
that man or woman of excellence, a chat-topper whose peerless action or actions
and priceless contributions to national development have inspired hope for a
better Nigeria. Among those who have won the prestigious award are ex-CBN Governor,
Professor Chukwuma Soludo (2004)
Ex-EFCC Chairman, Nuhu Ribadu (2005)
ex-education minister Oby Ezekwesili
(2006) and in 2007, Governors Rotimi Amaechi of Rivers state and his Anambra
state counterpart, Peter Obi
jointly won the award while Governor
Adams Oshiomhole of Edo state won for 2008. Governor Babatunde Raji Fashola of Lagos jointly won the award with
late co-founder of GT Bank Tayo Aderinokun
in 2009 while Billionaire Industrialist Aliko
Dangote and ex-Gombe state
governor, Senator Danjuma Goje
jointly won it in 2010. In 2011, Akwa
Ibom state Governor, Godswill
Akpabio was The Sun man of the year for his peerless transformation of the
state while Speaker, Aminu Waziri
Tambuwal picked the award in 2012 for his impeccable feat as the Speaker of the
Nigerian House of Representatives. In 2013, Delta state Governor, Dr. Emmanuel Uduaghan (PDP) and Kano
state governor, Alhaji Rabiu Musa
Kwakwanso (APC) jointly emerged as Sun man of the year. But winner for
2014 is no other person than the executive Governor of Sokoto state, Alhaji Aliyu Magatakarda Wammako who was honored in the glare of
many on Saturday January 17th
in year 2003 under the leadership of tabloid veterans Mike Awoyinfa and late Dimgba
Igwe as Managing Director and Deputy Managing Director of The
Sun Newspaper. The first Nigerian to get the first plaque of Sun
Man of the year Awards is no other person than Nigeria’s billionaire
business mogul, Otunba (Dr.) Mike
Adenuga Jnr.; the founder of Globacom
and Conoil. The Sun man of the year Award
is the flagship of THE SUN AWARDS and the ultimate honor bestowed annually on
that man or woman of excellence, a chat-topper whose peerless action or actions
and priceless contributions to national development have inspired hope for a
better Nigeria. Among those who have won the prestigious award are ex-CBN Governor,
Professor Chukwuma Soludo (2004)
Ex-EFCC Chairman, Nuhu Ribadu (2005)
ex-education minister Oby Ezekwesili
(2006) and in 2007, Governors Rotimi Amaechi of Rivers state and his Anambra
state counterpart, Peter Obi
jointly won the award while Governor
Adams Oshiomhole of Edo state won for 2008. Governor Babatunde Raji Fashola of Lagos jointly won the award with
late co-founder of GT Bank Tayo Aderinokun
in 2009 while Billionaire Industrialist Aliko
Dangote and ex-Gombe state
governor, Senator Danjuma Goje
jointly won it in 2010. In 2011, Akwa
Ibom state Governor, Godswill
Akpabio was The Sun man of the year for his peerless transformation of the
state while Speaker, Aminu Waziri
Tambuwal picked the award in 2012 for his impeccable feat as the Speaker of the
Nigerian House of Representatives. In 2013, Delta state Governor, Dr. Emmanuel Uduaghan (PDP) and Kano
state governor, Alhaji Rabiu Musa
Kwakwanso (APC) jointly emerged as Sun man of the year. But winner for
2014 is no other person than the executive Governor of Sokoto state, Alhaji Aliyu Magatakarda Wammako who was honored in the glare of
many on Saturday January 17th
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| Dancers from Benue State |
Why Gov Wammako won
Described as
a shining star in public service, Alhaji
Aliyu Magatarkada Wammako is largely seen as an inspirational and
turn-around leader who turned around the fortunes of the caliphate state of Sokoto
from a state grapping to meet numerous challenges on the educational,
housing and agricultural fronts to a state now buoyant with each economic
features. One of Wammako’s biggest
achievements in Sokoto state is his
government increased funding for education (Approximately 27% of the state
annual budget since he assumed power in 2007). The second big one and the most
talked about that won him mass attention is what is popularly known as SPORA in Sokoto state, which is called State Poverty Reduction Agency (SPORA) through which Wammako’s administration has implemented several laudable youth
skill acquisition programs to the benefit of the large population of the state
and reduced poverty among the ordinary people. Successful completion of a 500
bed capacity Murthala Muhammed Hospital; construction of an
ultra-modern Orthopaedic Hospital; establishment of a college of agriculture
school of development studies, college of legal studies and the school of
midwifery. Completion of over 120 Health
Care Centers and upgrading of over nine Permanent Health Care Centers to full fledged General hospitals,
upgrading of over 21 clinics to Permanent Health Care Centers and
successful completion and take-off of the state’s University which ranks as one
of the best universities in Nigeria and Africa.
a shining star in public service, Alhaji
Aliyu Magatarkada Wammako is largely seen as an inspirational and
turn-around leader who turned around the fortunes of the caliphate state of Sokoto
from a state grapping to meet numerous challenges on the educational,
housing and agricultural fronts to a state now buoyant with each economic
features. One of Wammako’s biggest
achievements in Sokoto state is his
government increased funding for education (Approximately 27% of the state
annual budget since he assumed power in 2007). The second big one and the most
talked about that won him mass attention is what is popularly known as SPORA in Sokoto state, which is called State Poverty Reduction Agency (SPORA) through which Wammako’s administration has implemented several laudable youth
skill acquisition programs to the benefit of the large population of the state
and reduced poverty among the ordinary people. Successful completion of a 500
bed capacity Murthala Muhammed Hospital; construction of an
ultra-modern Orthopaedic Hospital; establishment of a college of agriculture
school of development studies, college of legal studies and the school of
midwifery. Completion of over 120 Health
Care Centers and upgrading of over nine Permanent Health Care Centers to full fledged General hospitals,
upgrading of over 21 clinics to Permanent Health Care Centers and
successful completion and take-off of the state’s University which ranks as one
of the best universities in Nigeria and Africa.
And lastly, Aliyu Magatarkada Wammako is one of
Nigeria’s most democratic governors as he has allowed his deputy, Alhaji Shagari, son of Nigeria’s first
civilian president, and former minister of water resources under President Obasanjo’s regime to remain a
member of PDP despite the fact that he decamped to APC in 2014. To this rare
feats and political achievements, the editorial board of The Sun Newspaper deemed
it fit to honor him with the award of Sun Man of the Year 2014.
Nigeria’s most democratic governors as he has allowed his deputy, Alhaji Shagari, son of Nigeria’s first
civilian president, and former minister of water resources under President Obasanjo’s regime to remain a
member of PDP despite the fact that he decamped to APC in 2014. To this rare
feats and political achievements, the editorial board of The Sun Newspaper deemed
it fit to honor him with the award of Sun Man of the Year 2014.
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| Vice Chairma, NCC, Dr. Eugene Juwah, recieving the Public Service award from Mr. Mike Awoyinfa |
Why Orji Kalu was absent
One big
personality that dominated the last edition of the award was the chairman of The Sun Publishing Ltd, Dr. Orji
Uzor Kalu but the ex-Abia state governor couldn’t make his own event this
year as he stayed away over issues bordering on business and personal
schedules. Unconfirmed reports has it that Dr.
Orji Uzor Kalu who is presently doing a law degree program at a foreign
university in Europe might have been obstructed by academic engagements. In his
stead, one Reverend Emeka Abone,
Vice Chairman of Slok Group, one of Dr. Orji Uzor Kalu’s companies
represented the Igbere, Abia state born newly enlisted Forbes billionaire. Dr. Kalu who sent in a congratulatory
letter to the awardees through his representative urged the awardees to see the
recognition as a testament of their good works in the country; OUK as fondly addressed urged them not
to relent in doing more. Dr. Kalu
who recently lost his Vice Chairman at The
Sun Publishing, Pastor Dimgba Igwe
to an early morning hit-and-run car accident in Lagos while jogging, thanked
readers of Sun Newspaper for their loyalty and equally thanked the
management of the newspaper for keeping the flag flying.
personality that dominated the last edition of the award was the chairman of The Sun Publishing Ltd, Dr. Orji
Uzor Kalu but the ex-Abia state governor couldn’t make his own event this
year as he stayed away over issues bordering on business and personal
schedules. Unconfirmed reports has it that Dr.
Orji Uzor Kalu who is presently doing a law degree program at a foreign
university in Europe might have been obstructed by academic engagements. In his
stead, one Reverend Emeka Abone,
Vice Chairman of Slok Group, one of Dr. Orji Uzor Kalu’s companies
represented the Igbere, Abia state born newly enlisted Forbes billionaire. Dr. Kalu who sent in a congratulatory
letter to the awardees through his representative urged the awardees to see the
recognition as a testament of their good works in the country; OUK as fondly addressed urged them not
to relent in doing more. Dr. Kalu
who recently lost his Vice Chairman at The
Sun Publishing, Pastor Dimgba Igwe
to an early morning hit-and-run car accident in Lagos while jogging, thanked
readers of Sun Newspaper for their loyalty and equally thanked the
management of the newspaper for keeping the flag flying.
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| Prof. Jubril Aminu , recieving his Lifetime Achievement award from the Galadima of Sokoto, Alhaji Aliyu Attairu |
Mike without Dimgba
This year
must have been a boring year for tabloid king and one of the Directors of The
Sun Publishing Ltd, Mike Awoyinfa as he walked alone into the 12th edition
of The
Sun man of the year awards without his twin brother and best friend, Dimgba Igwe. The two used to be
together during the raining and the sunny moments their over two decades career
in journalism. Last year, they were together at the same event and even
presented awards together but this year the entire scenario changed as Mike had to grace the event without
his Dimgba. Life could be so funny;
no thanks to the September 6th 2014
early morning hit-and-run car accident in Lagos by an unknown driver which took
the life of the ever creative, dynamic but conservative Dimgba Igwe away while carrying out his early morning jogging
exercise near his Okota home. But in order not to make Mike Awoyinfa lonely, his beautiful wife, Bukola Awoyinfa (Who is now his only friend) and his eldest son, Jide Awoyinfa a staff of News
Agency of Nigeria joined him for the occasion. They took a quite position
at a sport in the hall until he was called to come and present a plaque for one
of the recipients.
must have been a boring year for tabloid king and one of the Directors of The
Sun Publishing Ltd, Mike Awoyinfa as he walked alone into the 12th edition
of The
Sun man of the year awards without his twin brother and best friend, Dimgba Igwe. The two used to be
together during the raining and the sunny moments their over two decades career
in journalism. Last year, they were together at the same event and even
presented awards together but this year the entire scenario changed as Mike had to grace the event without
his Dimgba. Life could be so funny;
no thanks to the September 6th 2014
early morning hit-and-run car accident in Lagos by an unknown driver which took
the life of the ever creative, dynamic but conservative Dimgba Igwe away while carrying out his early morning jogging
exercise near his Okota home. But in order not to make Mike Awoyinfa lonely, his beautiful wife, Bukola Awoyinfa (Who is now his only friend) and his eldest son, Jide Awoyinfa a staff of News
Agency of Nigeria joined him for the occasion. They took a quite position
at a sport in the hall until he was called to come and present a plaque for one
of the recipients.
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| Shonekan, presenting The Sun Man award to Wammako |
What Deacon Femi Adesina said about “12”
Many people know
Mr. Femi Adesina, the MD of The Sun Newspaper in tow capacities.
Firstly, as the Managing Director/Editor-in-chief of the leading tabloid establishment;
secondly, as the President of the Nigerian
Guild of Editors, an elite group of senior journalists in Nigeria but just
a very few and not all, know about Mr.
Adesina’s ecclesiastical background? He is a deacon of the Foursquare Church. Wonder why Chief Orji Kalu surrounded himself with
men of God at both at SLOK Group and
SUN Publishing Ltd. Mr. Adesina
is a top deacon in the Foursquare Church
and also a devoted member of Gideon
International, a globally renowned group of gospel enthusiasts across
nations. At the event, he displayed his ecclesiastical virtues when he was
reading his welcome citation to guests. Mr.
Adesina shocked guests when he described the 12th number which symbolizes the edition they were celebrating as
‘a unique number in the cosmic order’. Deacon
Femi Adesina equally observed that it was a new dawn for the newspaper
house. He elucidated further on the characteristic of the number 12 by saying “The
number 12 is generally believed to be a perfect number, symbolizing God’s power
and authority. It is symbol of the cosmic order” the Deacon and Journalist
spoke further on some other unique characteristic of 12 “There are 12 months in a year. Time is measured in two groups of 12
hours. There are 12 tribes of Judah representing the 12 sons of Jacob
(later known as Israel). “12 Imams are
successor to Prophet Mohammed, the prophet of Islam. Jesus Christ had 12
original disciples. The New Jerusalem that is expected to come from heaven has
12 gates. The European Union flag has 12 stars in it, though it has nothing to do with the number of
countries in the union. There are 12 days of Christmas, starting from December
25 to January 6, the feast of Epiphany and what again? Apollo-12 is the second
manned spacecraft to land on the moon. (Applauses rented the air at his
exit)
Mr. Femi Adesina, the MD of The Sun Newspaper in tow capacities.
Firstly, as the Managing Director/Editor-in-chief of the leading tabloid establishment;
secondly, as the President of the Nigerian
Guild of Editors, an elite group of senior journalists in Nigeria but just
a very few and not all, know about Mr.
Adesina’s ecclesiastical background? He is a deacon of the Foursquare Church. Wonder why Chief Orji Kalu surrounded himself with
men of God at both at SLOK Group and
SUN Publishing Ltd. Mr. Adesina
is a top deacon in the Foursquare Church
and also a devoted member of Gideon
International, a globally renowned group of gospel enthusiasts across
nations. At the event, he displayed his ecclesiastical virtues when he was
reading his welcome citation to guests. Mr.
Adesina shocked guests when he described the 12th number which symbolizes the edition they were celebrating as
‘a unique number in the cosmic order’. Deacon
Femi Adesina equally observed that it was a new dawn for the newspaper
house. He elucidated further on the characteristic of the number 12 by saying “The
number 12 is generally believed to be a perfect number, symbolizing God’s power
and authority. It is symbol of the cosmic order” the Deacon and Journalist
spoke further on some other unique characteristic of 12 “There are 12 months in a year. Time is measured in two groups of 12
hours. There are 12 tribes of Judah representing the 12 sons of Jacob
(later known as Israel). “12 Imams are
successor to Prophet Mohammed, the prophet of Islam. Jesus Christ had 12
original disciples. The New Jerusalem that is expected to come from heaven has
12 gates. The European Union flag has 12 stars in it, though it has nothing to do with the number of
countries in the union. There are 12 days of Christmas, starting from December
25 to January 6, the feast of Epiphany and what again? Apollo-12 is the second
manned spacecraft to land on the moon. (Applauses rented the air at his
exit)
 |
| Ex-Lagos MILAD Raji Alagbe Rasaki receiving an award on behalf of IBB from Speaker Aminu Tanbuwal |
How the venue was decorated
This year,
management of the newspaper moved away from old norm as it came out in their
decorative stunts which were clearly different from the way it has been done in
the last eleven editions. Right from the entrance of the hall leading into the
Expo Hall venue of the event center were lovely quotes emboldened and splashed
on the wall. These quotes, some from cover materials and others from articles
and write ups in the editions of The Sun made captivating decorations
on the passages, venue walls and stage of the event. Unlike in the old
tradition, where only ‘cover headlines’ or ‘name logo’ made such decorative
statements, this time around, the organizers drew words from lead stories, lead
headlines and articles to decorate the walls and give the event a real “The Sun Atmosphere”. It was such a
beautiful sight to behold as guests marveled at the creativity.
management of the newspaper moved away from old norm as it came out in their
decorative stunts which were clearly different from the way it has been done in
the last eleven editions. Right from the entrance of the hall leading into the
Expo Hall venue of the event center were lovely quotes emboldened and splashed
on the wall. These quotes, some from cover materials and others from articles
and write ups in the editions of The Sun made captivating decorations
on the passages, venue walls and stage of the event. Unlike in the old
tradition, where only ‘cover headlines’ or ‘name logo’ made such decorative
statements, this time around, the organizers drew words from lead stories, lead
headlines and articles to decorate the walls and give the event a real “The Sun Atmosphere”. It was such a
beautiful sight to behold as guests marveled at the creativity.
 |
| Tony Okoroji presenting the Nollywood Personality of the year award to Kunle Afolayan |
Those who made things happen
This year’s
event came with lots of challenges but the team of Mr. Femi Adesina, (MD/Editor-in-Chief), Neta Nwosu, GM, Corporate Services, Bolaji Tunji, Executive Director, Special Duties and Tosin Ajirire, head of the entertainment desk really worked
hard to make everything fall in place. Mr.
Femi Adesina who is the leader of the team was to say the least, restless
and at the same time tireless as he worked from one end of the expansive hall
to the other ensuring that all aspect of the event went smoothly. Mr. Adesina, Bolaji Tunji, Neta Nwosu and Tosin Ajirire worked at the back stage to ensure the event turned
out grand and splendid. Kudos to the men in The Sun!
event came with lots of challenges but the team of Mr. Femi Adesina, (MD/Editor-in-Chief), Neta Nwosu, GM, Corporate Services, Bolaji Tunji, Executive Director, Special Duties and Tosin Ajirire, head of the entertainment desk really worked
hard to make everything fall in place. Mr.
Femi Adesina who is the leader of the team was to say the least, restless
and at the same time tireless as he worked from one end of the expansive hall
to the other ensuring that all aspect of the event went smoothly. Mr. Adesina, Bolaji Tunji, Neta Nwosu and Tosin Ajirire worked at the back stage to ensure the event turned
out grand and splendid. Kudos to the men in The Sun!
 |
| Shonekan, presenting The Sun Man award to Wammako |
Gbenga Adeyinka and Helen Paul in
microphone marriage
microphone marriage
It will
appear that famous comedian Gbenga Adeyinka
the 1st is the preferred Comedian of The Sun Publication for
its Man
of The Year event in the last one decade or so. In fact, tongues are
beginning to wag that the Comedian of the Federal Republic of Nigeria
(CFR) might have been silently endorsed by the Dr. Orji Uzor Kalu led publishing house for the yearly role. In the
last couple of years, Gbenga Adeyinka who is equally the brand
comedian for Nigerian Breweries’ Star Larger beer brand was always paired
with famous baritone voice gifted Igbo born Master of Ceremony Chido Obichikwe but during the last
edition, the Ogun state born comedian got a “wife” in the person of famous comedienne Helen Paul. The two gave the best account of their God given talent
as Helen Paul gave a brilliant
rendition of her very hilarious jokes at each interval of the all evening event
which sent guests reeling with laughter from time to time. It was such a beautiful pairing as both
delivered the best of their best. Recall Gbenga
Adeyinka was equally the comedian for the event marking Advertising Guru, Biodun Shobanjo as Advertising Man of All times Award
organized by The Sun Newspaper early
last year.
appear that famous comedian Gbenga Adeyinka
the 1st is the preferred Comedian of The Sun Publication for
its Man
of The Year event in the last one decade or so. In fact, tongues are
beginning to wag that the Comedian of the Federal Republic of Nigeria
(CFR) might have been silently endorsed by the Dr. Orji Uzor Kalu led publishing house for the yearly role. In the
last couple of years, Gbenga Adeyinka who is equally the brand
comedian for Nigerian Breweries’ Star Larger beer brand was always paired
with famous baritone voice gifted Igbo born Master of Ceremony Chido Obichikwe but during the last
edition, the Ogun state born comedian got a “wife” in the person of famous comedienne Helen Paul. The two gave the best account of their God given talent
as Helen Paul gave a brilliant
rendition of her very hilarious jokes at each interval of the all evening event
which sent guests reeling with laughter from time to time. It was such a beautiful pairing as both
delivered the best of their best. Recall Gbenga
Adeyinka was equally the comedian for the event marking Advertising Guru, Biodun Shobanjo as Advertising Man of All times Award
organized by The Sun Newspaper early
last year.
 |
| Mr. Sam Omatseye (left) and Managing Director, New Telegraph newspapers, Mr. Eric Osagie |
6 Recipients who failed to show up
for their Awards
for their Awards
They were
given letters by the top officials of The
Sun Publishing Ltd and their pictures and statement of confirmation of
attendance were published but due to reasons beyond their comprehension, they
couldn’t show up to receive their plaque but they sent in representatives who
collected it on their behalf. Former military leader, General Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida who won a lifetime achievement
award was represented by former Lagos state Military Administrator Brigadier General Raji Alagbe Rasaki who equally delivered a note on
behalf of his former boss. One chief reason many adduced to IBB’s absence is his recuperation from
a recent illness he went to treat in Germany. The second person is Chief Tony Anenih, the chairman of the
Board of Trustee of the ruling PDP party in Nigeria, he was ably represented by
his son, Tony Anenih (Jnr.) Chief Tony
Anenih is said to be busy with
President Goodluck Jonathan’s presidential
rallies across the nation. Zenith Bank’s
founder and Forbes’ listed
billionaire Jim Ovia who won the Investor of the year award was also
missing in action as he was represented by Mr.
Victor Edoja, the Corporate Affairs Manager of Zenith Bank PLC. His plaque was delivered to him by The
Sun, Ghana bureau chief, Mr.
Sola Oshunkeye. The next person who equally missed an opportunity to show
up is Professor Joe Irukwu (SAN) who
won the Sun insurance man of the year; the famous Igbo leader, Joe Irukwu won this award on the
strength that he is the first Nigerian Professor of Insurance. He was
represented by an unnamed aide who collected his plaque on his behalf. Alhaji Muhammed Sani Sidi (OFR) the DG,
National Emergency Management Authority (NEMA) is the next man who
couldn’t make it down to the venue but his representative Mr. Onimode Bandele represented him well. Sports person of the
year, Mrs. Blessing Okagbare Otegheri couldn’t make it to
the venue too but she sent in her brother who collected the plaque on her
behalf.
given letters by the top officials of The
Sun Publishing Ltd and their pictures and statement of confirmation of
attendance were published but due to reasons beyond their comprehension, they
couldn’t show up to receive their plaque but they sent in representatives who
collected it on their behalf. Former military leader, General Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida who won a lifetime achievement
award was represented by former Lagos state Military Administrator Brigadier General Raji Alagbe Rasaki who equally delivered a note on
behalf of his former boss. One chief reason many adduced to IBB’s absence is his recuperation from
a recent illness he went to treat in Germany. The second person is Chief Tony Anenih, the chairman of the
Board of Trustee of the ruling PDP party in Nigeria, he was ably represented by
his son, Tony Anenih (Jnr.) Chief Tony
Anenih is said to be busy with
President Goodluck Jonathan’s presidential
rallies across the nation. Zenith Bank’s
founder and Forbes’ listed
billionaire Jim Ovia who won the Investor of the year award was also
missing in action as he was represented by Mr.
Victor Edoja, the Corporate Affairs Manager of Zenith Bank PLC. His plaque was delivered to him by The
Sun, Ghana bureau chief, Mr.
Sola Oshunkeye. The next person who equally missed an opportunity to show
up is Professor Joe Irukwu (SAN) who
won the Sun insurance man of the year; the famous Igbo leader, Joe Irukwu won this award on the
strength that he is the first Nigerian Professor of Insurance. He was
represented by an unnamed aide who collected his plaque on his behalf. Alhaji Muhammed Sani Sidi (OFR) the DG,
National Emergency Management Authority (NEMA) is the next man who
couldn’t make it down to the venue but his representative Mr. Onimode Bandele represented him well. Sports person of the
year, Mrs. Blessing Okagbare Otegheri couldn’t make it to
the venue too but she sent in her brother who collected the plaque on her
behalf.
 |
| Mrs. Folake Solanke, recieving Lifetime Achievement award from the Wife of Benue State Governor, Mrs Yemisi Suswam |
Between Senator Jubril Aminu and
first Nigerian female SAN
first Nigerian female SAN
They were
the only two eminent Nigerians who showed up to collect their lifetime
achievement awards even though they are advanced in age. Veteran politician and
former minister of petroleum under IBB’s
regime, Senator Jubril Aminu mounted the stage
with elderly gait to receive his award with a strong admonition that “Nigeria
must progress and must not break” he noted “Nigeria is a great country but the
citizens are not handling her well”. For
Mrs. Solanke her word is ‘rule of law must work’. The first Nigerian female
SAN said Nigeria cannot afford to hold judiciary in contempt “We cannot afford
to hold the judiciary in contempt. Judgments must be respected and judges
respected. We have to go back to the golden ages of the legal profession. When
I entered the legal profession, there was no talk of corruption in the
judiciary”. The two elder statesmen (And a Woman?) made their presence count
with their speeches which was loaded.
the only two eminent Nigerians who showed up to collect their lifetime
achievement awards even though they are advanced in age. Veteran politician and
former minister of petroleum under IBB’s
regime, Senator Jubril Aminu mounted the stage
with elderly gait to receive his award with a strong admonition that “Nigeria
must progress and must not break” he noted “Nigeria is a great country but the
citizens are not handling her well”. For
Mrs. Solanke her word is ‘rule of law must work’. The first Nigerian female
SAN said Nigeria cannot afford to hold judiciary in contempt “We cannot afford
to hold the judiciary in contempt. Judgments must be respected and judges
respected. We have to go back to the golden ages of the legal profession. When
I entered the legal profession, there was no talk of corruption in the
judiciary”. The two elder statesmen (And a Woman?) made their presence count
with their speeches which was loaded.
 |
| Mallam Danladi Bako (right), presenting the Manufacturer of the year award to Chief James Ugochukwu Uduji |
How Nigerians turned the event into a
political rally
Trust Naija
people, an element of show off will always occur wherever power, style
and panache is being prized. The event which started on a lighter mood suddenly
turned into a bazaar where
dignitaries marched as much as 50 to
100 aides to the podium to collect
their plaques for effect. In due course we shall give the names of people who
turned The Sun man of the year awards into a soap box and how they
stole the stage with their crowd and some of them with their families.
people, an element of show off will always occur wherever power, style
and panache is being prized. The event which started on a lighter mood suddenly
turned into a bazaar where
dignitaries marched as much as 50 to
100 aides to the podium to collect
their plaques for effect. In due course we shall give the names of people who
turned The Sun man of the year awards into a soap box and how they
stole the stage with their crowd and some of them with their families.
Lagos NIPR boss in the house
Nigerian Institute of Public Relations, Lagos
chapter’s boss and ex-Dangote Group head of Public Affairs, Joseph Okonma was one of the special
guests on the high table. He came into the event with few of his executives and
left after two hours. The dandy Joseph
Okonwa was looking cool, calm and collected.
chapter’s boss and ex-Dangote Group head of Public Affairs, Joseph Okonma was one of the special
guests on the high table. He came into the event with few of his executives and
left after two hours. The dandy Joseph
Okonwa was looking cool, calm and collected.
 |
| L-R, Ernest shonekan_ Sokoto state Governor,Alyu Wammako, Prof Jubril Aminu and Aminu Tanbuwa |
Big boy Abbe Ibrahim dodges Press
boys?
Abbe Ibrahim an oil and gas big boy and one of
the protégés of General Ibrahim
Babangida was one of the invited guests at the venue. He sat all through with former Lagos MILAD, General Raji Rasaki and even followed
the General to the stage when he was called to come and collect General Ibrahim Babangida’s lifetime achievement award. The very handsome Abbe Ibrahim who was the toast of town
many years ago was seen telling a journalist why he needed to cover his head
from press head lines at the moment. But can Abbe Ibrahim really, truly hide from the press? Time will tell.
the protégés of General Ibrahim
Babangida was one of the invited guests at the venue. He sat all through with former Lagos MILAD, General Raji Rasaki and even followed
the General to the stage when he was called to come and collect General Ibrahim Babangida’s lifetime achievement award. The very handsome Abbe Ibrahim who was the toast of town
many years ago was seen telling a journalist why he needed to cover his head
from press head lines at the moment. But can Abbe Ibrahim really, truly hide from the press? Time will tell.
Inside IBB’s letter
In his
address read by his ex-boy and former Lagos MILAD, General Raji Alagbe Rasaki, General
Babangida thanked the management of The
Sun Newspaper for considering him worthy of the honor of a lifetime
achievement award. The Evil
Genius as famously addressed said ‘he, his children, grand children and
great grand children would always cherish the award deeply because it is coming
from the media, the only institution he, IBB has tried to dominate but rather
unsuccessfully’. The former Head of State added “In fact, I must today confess
that the media have thoroughly dominated me, and rendered me helpless in so
many ways. I must say I feel humbled and pleasantly surprised at the recognition
as The Sun Lifetime Achiever’s recipient”.
IBB later advised the media to promote news items that will unite Nigerians
rather than divide her.
address read by his ex-boy and former Lagos MILAD, General Raji Alagbe Rasaki, General
Babangida thanked the management of The
Sun Newspaper for considering him worthy of the honor of a lifetime
achievement award. The Evil
Genius as famously addressed said ‘he, his children, grand children and
great grand children would always cherish the award deeply because it is coming
from the media, the only institution he, IBB has tried to dominate but rather
unsuccessfully’. The former Head of State added “In fact, I must today confess
that the media have thoroughly dominated me, and rendered me helpless in so
many ways. I must say I feel humbled and pleasantly surprised at the recognition
as The Sun Lifetime Achiever’s recipient”.
IBB later advised the media to promote news items that will unite Nigerians
rather than divide her.
 |
| First Bank GMD, Bisi Onasanya with wife, Hellen, receiving his award from IT Guru, Leo Stan Ekeh at the event |
First Bank MD and his moderate crowd
The Sun Banker of the
year, Bisi Onasanya came on stage smartly to
display his native intelligence and that he did to the admiration of the crowd
of guests. When the well built banker
was called up stage to pick his plaque he only allowed 9 smart staff (or aides)
with his pretty wife, Hellen who
stormed the stage with him, all making 10.
IT Guru and Zinox Computer
founder, Leo Stan Ekeh was called to
deliver the plaque to him. The CEO of First
Bank PLC dedicated his award to his staff and legion of customers across
Nigeria. In his word, he declared that his bank is not a bank that runs after ‘blind
profits’ but a bank with a century culture of ethics and professionalism. He
also said he has graduated from buying copies of The Sun because of page
3 girls to reading the paper because of its quality news content. He
thanked the organizers for seeing the qualities that endeared them to honor him
with such an auspicious award.
year, Bisi Onasanya came on stage smartly to
display his native intelligence and that he did to the admiration of the crowd
of guests. When the well built banker
was called up stage to pick his plaque he only allowed 9 smart staff (or aides)
with his pretty wife, Hellen who
stormed the stage with him, all making 10.
IT Guru and Zinox Computer
founder, Leo Stan Ekeh was called to
deliver the plaque to him. The CEO of First
Bank PLC dedicated his award to his staff and legion of customers across
Nigeria. In his word, he declared that his bank is not a bank that runs after ‘blind
profits’ but a bank with a century culture of ethics and professionalism. He
also said he has graduated from buying copies of The Sun because of page
3 girls to reading the paper because of its quality news content. He
thanked the organizers for seeing the qualities that endeared them to honor him
with such an auspicious award.
 |
| Chairman, NIPR, Lagos Chapter, Mr. Joseph Okonmah (left) and Mrs. Biodun Olujimi |
How Nestoil boss dusted First Bank MD
It was after
his documentary finished rolling on the large digital screen and he was invited
to the podium that people discovered that Dr.
Ernest Azudialu-Obiejesi, the man who co-won the Business man of the year
award with maritime business expert Dr.
Taiwo Afolabi is partly a politician and partly a business man. Immediately
he stormed the stage, he dusted First Bank’s Bisi Onasanya’s 9 aides’ championship title to 15 aides maximum. A
former Ondo state military administrator, Admiral
Biodun Olukoya was invited to hand over his plaque to him. Dr. Obiejesi who was in company of his pretty wife and daughter (Didn’t
mention their names) also dedicated
his award to staff of Nestoil and Obijason Group, another of his numerous
companies. He later challenged many
award organizers to continue to encourage private sector practitioners as they
are the only ones that wake up to create jobs that opens the economy and better
the lots of the country. With him, his wife, daughter and member of staff, the
toll rose to 18.
his documentary finished rolling on the large digital screen and he was invited
to the podium that people discovered that Dr.
Ernest Azudialu-Obiejesi, the man who co-won the Business man of the year
award with maritime business expert Dr.
Taiwo Afolabi is partly a politician and partly a business man. Immediately
he stormed the stage, he dusted First Bank’s Bisi Onasanya’s 9 aides’ championship title to 15 aides maximum. A
former Ondo state military administrator, Admiral
Biodun Olukoya was invited to hand over his plaque to him. Dr. Obiejesi who was in company of his pretty wife and daughter (Didn’t
mention their names) also dedicated
his award to staff of Nestoil and Obijason Group, another of his numerous
companies. He later challenged many
award organizers to continue to encourage private sector practitioners as they
are the only ones that wake up to create jobs that opens the economy and better
the lots of the country. With him, his wife, daughter and member of staff, the
toll rose to 18.
Dr. Afolabi won with 2 Oyinbos and 1
Oba Alayeluwa
Oba Alayeluwa
If there is
one man whose silence is more powerful than his noise, it is the Honorary
Consul-General of the Republic of
Djibouti in Nigeria and Sifax Group founder, Dr. Taiwo Afolabi (MON); he was the second
person who won Business Man of the Year
Award and by the time he was called to the stage, the entire hall marveled
at the brand of persons that made his entourage crew. Apart from two
expatriates who made his over 23 staff crew, a whole bunch of others pop out of
different section of the hall unto the stage for the Ogun state born business
guru. In fact, whole Kabiyesi Alayeluwa (King) the Olowu of Owu Kingdom in Ogun state, Oba (Dr.) Adegboyega Dosunmu (Amororo II)
was lucky to make Dr. Afolabi’s entourage, nobody knows if his
wife was among the crowd as his body guard was very hostile to journalists who
tried to get close to his table to ask for names. But this very gifted lawyer
and maritime expert made a great expression with his stage outing at The Sun
Man of the Year Awards ceremony and he was the longest standing recipient on
the stage as the MC, Gbenga Adeyinka
kept searching for names to come present his plaque to him until….
one man whose silence is more powerful than his noise, it is the Honorary
Consul-General of the Republic of
Djibouti in Nigeria and Sifax Group founder, Dr. Taiwo Afolabi (MON); he was the second
person who won Business Man of the Year
Award and by the time he was called to the stage, the entire hall marveled
at the brand of persons that made his entourage crew. Apart from two
expatriates who made his over 23 staff crew, a whole bunch of others pop out of
different section of the hall unto the stage for the Ogun state born business
guru. In fact, whole Kabiyesi Alayeluwa (King) the Olowu of Owu Kingdom in Ogun state, Oba (Dr.) Adegboyega Dosunmu (Amororo II)
was lucky to make Dr. Afolabi’s entourage, nobody knows if his
wife was among the crowd as his body guard was very hostile to journalists who
tried to get close to his table to ask for names. But this very gifted lawyer
and maritime expert made a great expression with his stage outing at The Sun
Man of the Year Awards ceremony and he was the longest standing recipient on
the stage as the MC, Gbenga Adeyinka
kept searching for names to come present his plaque to him until….
 |
| Manager, corporate Affairs, Zenith Bank plc, Mr. Victor Adoji (left), receiving an award of the Investor of the Year from Mr. Sola Oshunkeye. |
How Sifax ‘employed’ Speaker Aminu
Waziri Tambuwal
Waziri Tambuwal
After
calling several names like that of one Chief
Damien Obianure, Honorable Abdulahi
Adamu and Alhaji Olu Owolabi,
MD/CEO of Sachol, the MC, Gbenga Adeyinka suddenly used an executive
fiat (Only God knows who gave him the instruction but like we said, the
Honorary Consul General only talks with his eyes not his mouth), Adeyinka suddenly invited the speaker
of the house of representative and APC, Sokoto gubernatorial aspirant; Rt. Honorable Aminu Waziri Tambuwal to
come out and present Dr. Taiwo Afolabi’s plaque. Lest we forget,
Mr. Chike Ogeah, the honorable
commissioner for Information and strategy, Delta
state was also one of the “stage aides” who came out with Dr. Sunday Afolabi to collect his
plaque. Don’t forget, Chike Ogeah
used to work at Sachol as MD before
going into politics and that makes him an old staff of Dr. Afolabi. Eventually,
Nigeria’s no 4th citizen presented Dr. Afolabi’s Business Man
of the year award to him. You see how Dr.
Ernest Azudialu-Obiejesi would have greened with envy because both are Doctors but one Doctor is sharper than the other. We mean a Doctor who stormed stage with two Oyinbos, one Oba, one
serving commissioner and over 20 black staff and made Nigeria’s no 4th
citizen to give his award to him is not an ordinary “Doctor”. And guess what? Dr. Afolabi didn’t talk much. He only
dedicated the award to his members of staff and left with pomp and celebration.
Bravo! Sifax!
calling several names like that of one Chief
Damien Obianure, Honorable Abdulahi
Adamu and Alhaji Olu Owolabi,
MD/CEO of Sachol, the MC, Gbenga Adeyinka suddenly used an executive
fiat (Only God knows who gave him the instruction but like we said, the
Honorary Consul General only talks with his eyes not his mouth), Adeyinka suddenly invited the speaker
of the house of representative and APC, Sokoto gubernatorial aspirant; Rt. Honorable Aminu Waziri Tambuwal to
come out and present Dr. Taiwo Afolabi’s plaque. Lest we forget,
Mr. Chike Ogeah, the honorable
commissioner for Information and strategy, Delta
state was also one of the “stage aides” who came out with Dr. Sunday Afolabi to collect his
plaque. Don’t forget, Chike Ogeah
used to work at Sachol as MD before
going into politics and that makes him an old staff of Dr. Afolabi. Eventually,
Nigeria’s no 4th citizen presented Dr. Afolabi’s Business Man
of the year award to him. You see how Dr.
Ernest Azudialu-Obiejesi would have greened with envy because both are Doctors but one Doctor is sharper than the other. We mean a Doctor who stormed stage with two Oyinbos, one Oba, one
serving commissioner and over 20 black staff and made Nigeria’s no 4th
citizen to give his award to him is not an ordinary “Doctor”. And guess what? Dr. Afolabi didn’t talk much. He only
dedicated the award to his members of staff and left with pomp and celebration.
Bravo! Sifax!
 |
| First lady of Benue state, Dooshima Yemisi Suswan receiving her MOST SUPPORTING FIRST LADY IN NIGERIA Award from Nigeria’s first Female SAN Fola Solanke at the event |
And the Eze Gburu-gburu broke record.
With over 50 staff and aides on the stage, Chief (Sir) James Uzochukwu Uduji aka Eze
Gburugburu, the founder of Cometstar
Manufacturing Ltd (Manufacturers of state-of-the-art electric cable wire
with ISO 90012008) and Sun Manufacturer of the year Award
winner broke the record. When his name was called to come pick his plaque it
was like a quarter of the expo hall actually came for him. The plaque was
presented to him by Sokoto state commissioner for information and strategy and
veteran broadcaster, Alhaji Danladi
Bako. Chief Uduji who had some
igbo traditional chiefs in his entourage also had staff, body guards etc in the
entourage. Good enough, he was the only recipient that honored his wife, Doris by mentioning her name on stage.
But his record of over 50 staff and
aides including minor traditional rulers was second to none. Like his
co-recipients, he dedicated his award to his over 1000 staff members.
Gburugburu, the founder of Cometstar
Manufacturing Ltd (Manufacturers of state-of-the-art electric cable wire
with ISO 90012008) and Sun Manufacturer of the year Award
winner broke the record. When his name was called to come pick his plaque it
was like a quarter of the expo hall actually came for him. The plaque was
presented to him by Sokoto state commissioner for information and strategy and
veteran broadcaster, Alhaji Danladi
Bako. Chief Uduji who had some
igbo traditional chiefs in his entourage also had staff, body guards etc in the
entourage. Good enough, he was the only recipient that honored his wife, Doris by mentioning her name on stage.
But his record of over 50 staff and
aides including minor traditional rulers was second to none. Like his
co-recipients, he dedicated his award to his over 1000 staff members.
 |
| Hellen Paul(middle) with the Ushers |
The Colonades man too….
In the Igbo
business circle in Lagos, Chief Charles
Odunukwe is only known with several businesses but the major one that
sticks to him like glue is Colonades
Hotel along Alfred Rewane Road,
Ikoyi Lagos. But beyond Colonnades, he is an importer of choice wines like Chardon
and Joven
champagne which include the Capel and Rose brand. He won Sun
Hospitality man of the year award. The former chairman of the Federation
of Tourism Association of Nigeria (FTAN) was humbled by a crowd plenty
enough to start a construction company; who stormed the stage with him. In
fact, when he hit the stage, because of his slim stature, camera men had
problem identifying him from his crowd. He gave kudos to the first MD and DMD
of Sun Newspaper Mike Awoyinfa and Dimgba Igwe and also salutes the
immediate and present MD and other top management staff of the organization. His plaque was presented to him by Professor Nuhu Yaqub the Vice
Chancellor of the Sokoto state
university.
business circle in Lagos, Chief Charles
Odunukwe is only known with several businesses but the major one that
sticks to him like glue is Colonades
Hotel along Alfred Rewane Road,
Ikoyi Lagos. But beyond Colonnades, he is an importer of choice wines like Chardon
and Joven
champagne which include the Capel and Rose brand. He won Sun
Hospitality man of the year award. The former chairman of the Federation
of Tourism Association of Nigeria (FTAN) was humbled by a crowd plenty
enough to start a construction company; who stormed the stage with him. In
fact, when he hit the stage, because of his slim stature, camera men had
problem identifying him from his crowd. He gave kudos to the first MD and DMD
of Sun Newspaper Mike Awoyinfa and Dimgba Igwe and also salutes the
immediate and present MD and other top management staff of the organization. His plaque was presented to him by Professor Nuhu Yaqub the Vice
Chancellor of the Sokoto state
university.
 |
| Vice Chancellor, Sokoto State University, Prof. Nuhu Yaqub, presenting the Hospitality Man of the year award to Mr. Charles Odunukwe and his wife. |
Mr. Broadband too
Public Service Award of
the year went to
Dr Eugene Juwa aka Mr. Broadband, the Vice Chairman; Nigeria Communication Commission
(NCC) He was on stage to receive his award with just 10 staff members and
well-wishers who followed him from Abuja to Lagos. His plaque was delivered to him by Sun
director, Mike Awoyinfa. He dedicated his award to his team and urged the
media to keep supporting the NCC as the task of serving an industry which
serves millions of phones lines is not a joke.
the year went to
Dr Eugene Juwa aka Mr. Broadband, the Vice Chairman; Nigeria Communication Commission
(NCC) He was on stage to receive his award with just 10 staff members and
well-wishers who followed him from Abuja to Lagos. His plaque was delivered to him by Sun
director, Mike Awoyinfa. He dedicated his award to his team and urged the
media to keep supporting the NCC as the task of serving an industry which
serves millions of phones lines is not a joke.
Kunle Afolayan gets Nollywood
Personality of the Year
Personality of the Year
He came on
stage with two of his brothers, his mum and two aides to receive his plaque. He
gave kudos to the Olowu of owu
kingdom, Oba Adegboyega Dosunmu
(Amororo II) for being in the gathering and thanked Nigerians for taking his
works serious. The dashing banker turned actor invoked the name of his father, Adeyemi Afolayan and the likes of Hubert Ogunde, Duro Ladipo, Eddy Ogbonna,
Baba Salah and few others,
appreciating them for creating an industry that has transcend little
beginnings. Afolayan also thanked Governor Babatunde Raji Fashola of Lagos for supporting him with
financial assistance during his last project October 1. Described as “The Poster Boy” of Nollywood, Afolayan’s movies are rich, compelling
and inspiring. His productions are in a class of their own, and tell stories in
beautiful and arresting manner.
stage with two of his brothers, his mum and two aides to receive his plaque. He
gave kudos to the Olowu of owu
kingdom, Oba Adegboyega Dosunmu
(Amororo II) for being in the gathering and thanked Nigerians for taking his
works serious. The dashing banker turned actor invoked the name of his father, Adeyemi Afolayan and the likes of Hubert Ogunde, Duro Ladipo, Eddy Ogbonna,
Baba Salah and few others,
appreciating them for creating an industry that has transcend little
beginnings. Afolayan also thanked Governor Babatunde Raji Fashola of Lagos for supporting him with
financial assistance during his last project October 1. Described as “The Poster Boy” of Nollywood, Afolayan’s movies are rich, compelling
and inspiring. His productions are in a class of their own, and tell stories in
beautiful and arresting manner.
How Don Jazzy stole show at the event
When Michel Colins Ajereh aka Don Jazzy was called out to come and
collect his plaque as Sun Creative Person of the Year, the
hall erupted with a “heeeeh” from the crowd. It was like the evening was made
for Don Jazzy. The award of
“Creative Person of the year” was given to him for his ability to create
blockbuster albums and songs and for being able to maintain his originality
after dumping Mo-Hit Records for Mavin Records. Tagged “The Don of Street Groove”, Ajereh walked up to the stage with music
icon, Tuface Idibia while actress Chika Ike handed his plaque to him. The
Dorobuchi
and Eminado creator who hate to talk much gave just a line “Don’t
judge my appreciation with the length of my speech”, gave some happy-go-lucky
smiles and thanked the organizers for reckoning with his creativity. He dedicated
the award to his fans. He went straight to Dr.
Taiwo Afolabi’s table to salute The Sun Business Man of The Year
before he finally took his exit amidst a surging crowd of fans who made his
exit a very difficult task.
collect his plaque as Sun Creative Person of the Year, the
hall erupted with a “heeeeh” from the crowd. It was like the evening was made
for Don Jazzy. The award of
“Creative Person of the year” was given to him for his ability to create
blockbuster albums and songs and for being able to maintain his originality
after dumping Mo-Hit Records for Mavin Records. Tagged “The Don of Street Groove”, Ajereh walked up to the stage with music
icon, Tuface Idibia while actress Chika Ike handed his plaque to him. The
Dorobuchi
and Eminado creator who hate to talk much gave just a line “Don’t
judge my appreciation with the length of my speech”, gave some happy-go-lucky
smiles and thanked the organizers for reckoning with his creativity. He dedicated
the award to his fans. He went straight to Dr.
Taiwo Afolabi’s table to salute The Sun Business Man of The Year
before he finally took his exit amidst a surging crowd of fans who made his
exit a very difficult task.
 |
| L-R Abdullahi Maikano_ Ken Ugbechie and Tony Oyobo |
Between Dr. Ameyo Stella Adadevoh of Naija & Jesus Christ of Nazareth
Her own
honor was posthumous but it was like she was there in person as those who witnessed
the Nigerian Heroes Award segment
were nearly moved to tears for such a heroic woman. Before then, a short documentary
had compared her death with no one else but that of Jesus Christ. Just as Jesus
paid the price for all to live out of sin,
Dr. Ameyo Adadevoh also used herself as a stand-in for the dreaded Ebola
decease which was imported into Nigeria in July 2014 and withstood the impact
by sacrificing her own life. Her physical restrain of the late Liberian jail
bird Patrick Sawyer and committed
alertness to on Sawyer’s illness
helped Nigeria and Nigerians a great deal to be aware of the contagious disease
and equally stopped it while she paid
the ultimate price with her own life. The entire hall was asked to observe a
minute silence while standing, for her great soul. Her award was picked by a
team of physicians from First Consultant
Hospital, Obalende, Lagos led by Dr.
Hilary Odion.
honor was posthumous but it was like she was there in person as those who witnessed
the Nigerian Heroes Award segment
were nearly moved to tears for such a heroic woman. Before then, a short documentary
had compared her death with no one else but that of Jesus Christ. Just as Jesus
paid the price for all to live out of sin,
Dr. Ameyo Adadevoh also used herself as a stand-in for the dreaded Ebola
decease which was imported into Nigeria in July 2014 and withstood the impact
by sacrificing her own life. Her physical restrain of the late Liberian jail
bird Patrick Sawyer and committed
alertness to on Sawyer’s illness
helped Nigeria and Nigerians a great deal to be aware of the contagious disease
and equally stopped it while she paid
the ultimate price with her own life. The entire hall was asked to observe a
minute silence while standing, for her great soul. Her award was picked by a
team of physicians from First Consultant
Hospital, Obalende, Lagos led by Dr.
Hilary Odion.
 |
| L-R, Tanbuwah, Shonekan, Femi Adeshina, Wammako and Yemisi Suswan |
The Dooshima Suswan show
Winning the
“Most Supportive First lady Award”
was the best opportunity for Mrs. Dooshima
Yemisi Suswan the First Lady of Benue state to show the greatness of her state and equally
celebrate the unique talent of her people. Her Sev-Av Foundation which has brought lot of goodness to the lives of
indigent people in Benue state especially widows and orphans is what drew the
management of The Sun Newspaper to
give her the award of Nigeria’s most supportive first lady.
A 15 man cultural troupe from the
Benue State council for arts and culture under the leadership of one Aernyi Terseer (Director of the troupe)
put up a strong cultural performance to honor Mrs. Suswan who stormed the stage with over 60 women and aides.
Hers was a real great show of superiority than other recipients as her crowd
were not only distinctive but largely made of women who sang her praise and
made lullaby
in her honor. Benue born musician Zaaki
Adzay was on stage to add color to Mrs. Suswan’s presence and give her
great moral support. The first lady of Benue thanked the organizers for taking
note of her efforts and honoring her with the award. She pleaded with Nigerians
to stand for unity and break every wall of disunity among country men and live
together for peace and development. Mrs.
Dooshima Suswan was the first and only recipient that dedicated her award
to GOD for giving her the wisdom to pilot the affairs of her state alongside
her husband.
“Most Supportive First lady Award”
was the best opportunity for Mrs. Dooshima
Yemisi Suswan the First Lady of Benue state to show the greatness of her state and equally
celebrate the unique talent of her people. Her Sev-Av Foundation which has brought lot of goodness to the lives of
indigent people in Benue state especially widows and orphans is what drew the
management of The Sun Newspaper to
give her the award of Nigeria’s most supportive first lady.
A 15 man cultural troupe from the
Benue State council for arts and culture under the leadership of one Aernyi Terseer (Director of the troupe)
put up a strong cultural performance to honor Mrs. Suswan who stormed the stage with over 60 women and aides.
Hers was a real great show of superiority than other recipients as her crowd
were not only distinctive but largely made of women who sang her praise and
made lullaby
in her honor. Benue born musician Zaaki
Adzay was on stage to add color to Mrs. Suswan’s presence and give her
great moral support. The first lady of Benue thanked the organizers for taking
note of her efforts and honoring her with the award. She pleaded with Nigerians
to stand for unity and break every wall of disunity among country men and live
together for peace and development. Mrs.
Dooshima Suswan was the first and only recipient that dedicated her award
to GOD for giving her the wisdom to pilot the affairs of her state alongside
her husband.
 |
| Dr. Orji Uzor Kalu having fun with his Governors and Ex-Governor friends during the 2014 edition of Sun Man of The Year Award….This year he was missing in action. |
What First Female SAN said about
Benue First Lady
Benue First Lady
Mrs. Dooshima Yemisi Suswan, the Ekiti state born first lady of
Benue state and wife of Gabriel Suswan
was more than lucky as eminent lawyer and first female Senior Advocate of
Nigeria (SAN) Chief Folake Solanke was called to the podium to
come and deliver her award to her. The eminent female SAN who also won a
lifetime achievement awards at the event commented the Benue state first lady
for her humility and mercy towards the ordinary people in her state. Chief Folake Solanke said she was happy
to have a handshake with Dooshima Yemisi
Suswan as her own first daughter is equally named Yemisi. Mrs. Solanke noticed
Mrs. Suswan’s beauty and home
training and said “When it comes to the question of female beauty, men do not
consider tribe or state of origin”. Chief
Solanke said Dooshima Suswan is
a real epitome of female beauty and her beauty and sense of diligence has
searched her out for commendation.
Benue state and wife of Gabriel Suswan
was more than lucky as eminent lawyer and first female Senior Advocate of
Nigeria (SAN) Chief Folake Solanke was called to the podium to
come and deliver her award to her. The eminent female SAN who also won a
lifetime achievement awards at the event commented the Benue state first lady
for her humility and mercy towards the ordinary people in her state. Chief Folake Solanke said she was happy
to have a handshake with Dooshima Yemisi
Suswan as her own first daughter is equally named Yemisi. Mrs. Solanke noticed
Mrs. Suswan’s beauty and home
training and said “When it comes to the question of female beauty, men do not
consider tribe or state of origin”. Chief
Solanke said Dooshima Suswan is
a real epitome of female beauty and her beauty and sense of diligence has
searched her out for commendation.
 |
| Star actress Chika Ike and Hip-Pop Music icon, Tuface Idibia presenting an award to Entertainment Personality of the Year, Don-Jazzy |
Zaaki Adzay honors Mrs. Suswan
Famous
hip-pop act, Zaaky Adzay was one of
the acts who performed at this years’ edition of The Sun Man
of the year awards. But more than anything, the very gifted Benue state
born act gave both moral and artistic support to the wife of his governor as he
sang a special number for her before she received the award and after she left
the stage. It was such a wonderful and interesting presentation from one of
Benue’s son of the soil.
hip-pop act, Zaaky Adzay was one of
the acts who performed at this years’ edition of The Sun Man
of the year awards. But more than anything, the very gifted Benue state
born act gave both moral and artistic support to the wife of his governor as he
sang a special number for her before she received the award and after she left
the stage. It was such a wonderful and interesting presentation from one of
Benue’s son of the soil.
Sun Man of the Year bombs IG of
Police
Police
After
collecting his Sun man of the year Award plaque with pomp and celebration, Sokoto state governor Aliyu Wammako gave a thumb down to the present Nigerian Inspector General
of Police Sulaiman Abba. After
highlighting some of his discrepancies in office which disobedience for the
rule of law is number 1, the governor submitted that IG Suleiman Abba is
better more as a DPO than an Inspector General of Police. His awards
was handed over to him by chairman of the occasion, Chief Ernest Shonekan (GCFR) with lots of dignitaries including the
present speaker and incoming governor of Sokoto state, Rt. Honorable Aminu Waziri
Tambuwal standing by Governor
Wammako to identify with him as one of Nigeria’s best in Political
leadership.
collecting his Sun man of the year Award plaque with pomp and celebration, Sokoto state governor Aliyu Wammako gave a thumb down to the present Nigerian Inspector General
of Police Sulaiman Abba. After
highlighting some of his discrepancies in office which disobedience for the
rule of law is number 1, the governor submitted that IG Suleiman Abba is
better more as a DPO than an Inspector General of Police. His awards
was handed over to him by chairman of the occasion, Chief Ernest Shonekan (GCFR) with lots of dignitaries including the
present speaker and incoming governor of Sokoto state, Rt. Honorable Aminu Waziri
Tambuwal standing by Governor
Wammako to identify with him as one of Nigeria’s best in Political
leadership.
Telegraph MD loses Phone
It was far,
far into the evening when all the VIPs had left and the hall almost empty that
it was discovered that one man was highly disturbed as he just discovered his
very expensive classy phone has developed wings and flew into the night; that
man is nobody else than the robust media expert and Managing Director of Daily
Telegraph Newspaper, Mr. Eric
Osagie. The former SA to Edo state Governor, Adams Oshiomhole and Director of The Sun Newspaper was very disturbed as the phone contained a lot
of very important contacts; he searched every where in the hall and later went
down stairs at the Eko Hotel restaurant
where he had his super that night, to check if by fault, he forgot the phone at
the restaurant. But it all proved abortive as the telephone, a Nokia brand refused to appear. Analysts
believed the very famous columnist might have lost his phone to some eagle eyed
funny individuals that gained entry into the event through some other means.
However, this blog wish Mr. Eric Osagie
a soonest recovery from the shock of losing such a “Contact Loaded” classy
Nokia Phone. Aa ni ri iru e mo sir. Amin.
far into the evening when all the VIPs had left and the hall almost empty that
it was discovered that one man was highly disturbed as he just discovered his
very expensive classy phone has developed wings and flew into the night; that
man is nobody else than the robust media expert and Managing Director of Daily
Telegraph Newspaper, Mr. Eric
Osagie. The former SA to Edo state Governor, Adams Oshiomhole and Director of The Sun Newspaper was very disturbed as the phone contained a lot
of very important contacts; he searched every where in the hall and later went
down stairs at the Eko Hotel restaurant
where he had his super that night, to check if by fault, he forgot the phone at
the restaurant. But it all proved abortive as the telephone, a Nokia brand refused to appear. Analysts
believed the very famous columnist might have lost his phone to some eagle eyed
funny individuals that gained entry into the event through some other means.
However, this blog wish Mr. Eric Osagie
a soonest recovery from the shock of losing such a “Contact Loaded” classy
Nokia Phone. Aa ni ri iru e mo sir. Amin.
 |
| Mrs. Yemisi Suswam (middle), with her people after her award |
